Christmas is my holiday to host.
Now that we’ve done it for several years, it’s officially a tradition. Of course, this year we are making some adjustments but regardless, there will be people in my house on Christmas Day.
My friend is hosting Christmas for the first time and asked for some advice. I’m no expert but there are some things I’ve learned along the way.
*The week before:
-Finalize your menu. Write it all down. Everything.
-Finalize your guest list as much as possible. This gives you a chance to ask them to bring something too … ain’t no shame in that. Most people are just happy they don’t have to host so they don’t mind bringing a dish or two.
-Make your shopping list. Write it all down. Everything. Don’t just assume you have what you need (speaking from experience). Check your pantry for flour and your fridge for butter. Make sure you have enough paper plates (unless you like washing the dishes), cups, utensils and napkins.
-Go ahead and buy non-perishables. Just in case your usual store doesn’t have what you need, you will have more time to look somewhere else. This prevents last-minute, frantic, running around like a crazy woman drama.
-Plan some activities for your guests. What games can you play? Do you have all the supplies you need? Decide on the rules so you don’t have to figure it out that day while your guests are staring at you.
*A few days before:
-Do as much random cleaning as you can. Are you one of those people who clean your shower before guests come over? I am. Don’t ask why. No one has ever asked to use my shower on Christmas Day, but my sister does have a habit of using my bathroom … so I want it to be clean.
-Finish up your shopping. You don’t want to be at the grocery store on Christmas Eve. Trust me.
*The day before:
-Do as much food prep as possible. Assemble casseroles and cut veggies. Whatever can be done, do it. You’ll thank yourself later.
-Get out your supplies including servingware and platters.
-Make food signs if you want to avoid answering “What’s this?” the whole time.
-Do one last round of cleaning if needed.
-Tell your husband and kids NOT to use the guest bathroom.
*The day of:
-Start earlier than you think you need to. Without fail, people come hungry so you want to be ready.
-Recruit help. You don’t have to do it all.
-Light a candle – people may think you do it all the time but it’s really so your house smells good for them.
-Pray – ask God to bless your time with family and friends. Ask Him to fill your heart with love for each person who enters your home … and a little extra energy wouldn’t hurt either.
-Enjoy yourself.
-Recruit help (again) to clean up
-Get a massage. You deserve it.
If you have any tips to share, we’d love to hear it! Comment below!
~Anu
